On October 29, 1998, Ben Hall, founder and owner of Hall Spars, addressed NEMA members at the monthly meeting. He spoke about the A Class Catamaran and his efforts at establishing a fleet of these boats at Rhode Island's Bristol Yacht Club. With a maximum length of 18' and beam of 7 1/2', this lightweight highly-maneuverable multihull is a "pure sailing machine," says Hall. "One hour sailing this boat is all the therapy you need for a hard day's work."
Armed with a full carousel of slides, Ben treated the audience with spectacular action shots taken at various A Class Catamaran races. "My only regret is not finding out about this boat earlier in life," said Hall.
About to embark to Australia, Hall plans to race the A Class in the 1999 World Sailing Championships in January 1999. For more information about the World Championship go to http://www.99worlds.org.